January Blues Festival - Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado

January Blues Festival Presents: Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado

London’s premier blues celebration returns in 2026 with a powerhouse performance from Scandinavian blues sensations, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado. Get ready for a night of raw energy, blistering solos, and soulful vocals as they take to the stage at the renowned 229 The Venue on Sunday, 11 January 2026.

About the Event

Prepare for an electrifying start to the year as the January Blues Festival lights up London with a curated selection of world-class blues artists. This year, we are thrilled to present a headline performance from the internationally acclaimed Danish band, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado. This is more than just a concert; it’s an immersion into the heart and soul of modern blues, delivered with an authentic passion that has captivated audiences across the globe. Known for their dynamic stage presence and deeply resonant sound, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado promise a truly unforgettable evening at the intimate and atmospheric 229 The Venue. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness one of the most exciting blues acts on the international circuit right here in the heart of London.

About January Blues Festival - Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado

Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado have firmly established themselves as a formidable force in the European blues scene, and their upcoming performance at the January Blues Festival is a testament to their enduring appeal. Hailing from Denmark, the band has carved out a unique niche for themselves, blending traditional blues with elements of rock, soul, and even a touch of gospel. Frontman Thorbjørn Risager is a commanding presence, boasting a voice that can shift from a gravelly growl to a soaring falsetto, all imbued with an undeniable emotional depth. His harmonica playing is equally impressive, adding layers of texture and excitement to the band’s already rich sonic tapestry.

Formed in 2002, the band has consistently released critically acclaimed albums and built a reputation for their electrifying live shows. Their discography boasts a string of impressive releases, each showcasing their growth and evolution as musicians. Early albums like “Come On In” and “Live at the Norwegian Blues Festival” hinted at the powerhouse they would become, while later works such as “Too Many Miles” and the Grammy-nominated “Bring It Upon” cemented their status as international stars. Their music often explores themes of love, loss, resilience, and the everyday struggles and triumphs of life, delivered with a sincerity that resonates deeply with listeners. Notable tracks that have garnered significant attention and are often featured in their setlists include the gritty blues-rock anthem “If You Wanna Leave,” the soulful ballad “Long Forgotten Days,” and the rollicking crowd-pleaser “Same Old Thing.” Their consistent touring across Europe, North America, and Asia has allowed them to hone their craft and connect with diverse audiences, solidifying their reputation as one of the most authentic and exciting blues bands of their generation.

Venue Information

229 The Venue, located in the vibrant heart of London, is a celebrated space known for its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for a powerful live music experience. With a capacity designed to foster a close connection between the audience and the performers, it provides an ideal environment to absorb the raw energy of Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado. The venue boasts a well-stocked bar and friendly staff, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable evening for all attendees. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a high-octane performance that will leave you breathless. Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado are renowned for their dynamic and energetic live shows. Their sets are a masterful blend of powerful, driving blues-rock anthems, deeply soulful ballads, and electrifying instrumental passages. Expect Thorbjørn Risager to command the stage with his distinctive vocal delivery, effortlessly navigating a vast emotional spectrum, while his harmonica skills will undoubtedly leave you spellbound. The tight musicianship of The Black Tornado – comprising talented guitarists, a solid bass and drum rhythm section, and a masterful keyboardist – creates a sonic landscape that is both powerful and nuanced.

While the exact setlist for this special January Blues Festival performance will be a delightful surprise, fans can anticipate a selection of their most beloved tracks, alongside material from their extensive catalogue that showcases their diverse musical palette. Numbers like the infectious groove of “Lady Rain,” the brooding intensity of “China Gate,” and the sheer joy of “I’m Not the Same” are staples that get audiences on their feet. You can also expect them to delve into newer material, demonstrating their continued artistic innovation. The show is anticipated to be approximately two hours in length, with a short interval, providing ample opportunity to experience the full force of their musical prowess. This is not just a concert; it’s a communal celebration of blues music, delivered with unparalleled passion and skill.

FAQs

Q: Is Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado an American band? A: No, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado are a critically acclaimed blues band from Denmark. They have gained significant international recognition for their authentic sound and powerful performances, bringing a unique Scandinavian flavour to the blues genre.

Q: What is Thorbjørn Risager’s vocal style like? A: Thorbjørn Risager possesses a truly remarkable voice, often described as powerful, soulful, and incredibly versatile. He can deliver a raw, gritty growl that embodies the hardships of the blues, as well as soar with a clear, emotive tone. His vocal range and expressive delivery are a cornerstone of the band’s appeal.

Q: Are they known for any particular instruments beyond vocals? A: Yes, Thorbjørn Risager is also an accomplished harmonica player. His harmonica solos are a signature element of the band’s live performances, adding a distinctive layer of texture and bluesy grit to their songs.

Q: Have they won any awards or received significant critical acclaim? A: Absolutely. Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado have received numerous accolades throughout their career. They have been nominated for Danish Music Awards and have won the prestigious European Blues Award for Best Band. Their album “Bring It Upon” was also nominated for a Grammy Award.

Q: What kind of blues do they play? Is it traditional or more modern? A: Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado play a contemporary style of blues that is deeply rooted in tradition but also incorporates elements of rock, soul, and gospel. Their music is energetic, dynamic, and has a strong modern appeal, making it accessible to a wide range of music lovers while remaining true to the spirit of the blues.

Q: Can I expect to hear their popular songs like “If You Wanna Leave” or “Long Forgotten Days”? A: It is highly likely that you will hear many of their most popular and well-loved tracks. While setlists can vary, “If You Wanna Leave,” “Long Forgotten Days,” and other fan favourites are usually integral parts of their electrifying live shows. The band always aims to deliver a set that satisfies long-time fans while introducing their music to new audiences.